Author: Marko Pogacnik
Publisher: SteinerBooks
ISBN: 1584205490
Category : Body, Mind & Spirit
Languages : en
Pages : 588
Book Description
Marko Pogacnik researched the inner meaning of patterns in Venice. His tools for this inner workthe science of intuitionincluded the classic four elements of earth, water, air and fire; the Chinese polarity of yin and yang; and the alchemical concept of creation as the wedding of feminine and masculine.
Venice: Discovering a Hidden Pathway
Author: Marko Pogacnik
Publisher: SteinerBooks
ISBN: 1584205490
Category : Body, Mind & Spirit
Languages : en
Pages : 588
Book Description
Marko Pogacnik researched the inner meaning of patterns in Venice. His tools for this inner workthe science of intuitionincluded the classic four elements of earth, water, air and fire; the Chinese polarity of yin and yang; and the alchemical concept of creation as the wedding of feminine and masculine.
Publisher: SteinerBooks
ISBN: 1584205490
Category : Body, Mind & Spirit
Languages : en
Pages : 588
Book Description
Marko Pogacnik researched the inner meaning of patterns in Venice. His tools for this inner workthe science of intuitionincluded the classic four elements of earth, water, air and fire; the Chinese polarity of yin and yang; and the alchemical concept of creation as the wedding of feminine and masculine.
Secret Venice
Author: Thomas Jonglez
Publisher: Editions Jonglez
ISBN: 9782361952266
Category : Travel
Languages : en
Pages : 0
Book Description
Five years of research were needed to conceive this exceptional guide, which will allow all lovers of Venice and the Venetians themselves to start exploring the most extraordinary city in the world, away from the beaten path.
Publisher: Editions Jonglez
ISBN: 9782361952266
Category : Travel
Languages : en
Pages : 0
Book Description
Five years of research were needed to conceive this exceptional guide, which will allow all lovers of Venice and the Venetians themselves to start exploring the most extraordinary city in the world, away from the beaten path.
From Venice with Love
Author: Rosanna Ley
Publisher: Quercus
ISBN: 1787476308
Category : Fiction
Languages : en
Pages : 372
Book Description
'COMPLETELY BEGUILING AND BEAUTIFULLY TOLD' Kate Furnival 'A PERFECT SUMMER READ' Rachel Hore 'A GORGEOUS, MOUTH-WATERING DREAM OF A HOLIDAY READ' Red 'PERFECT HOLIDAY READING, WHEREVER YOU GO' The Lady The bestselling author of The Lemon Tree Hotel returns with an enchanting new summer read about family bonds and following your heart, wherever it might take you... With her marriage in danger of falling apart, Joanna returns home to the beautiful but dilapidated Mulberry Farm Cottage in rural Dorset, where her sister Harriet is struggling to keep the Farm afloat and cope with their eccentric mother. When Joanna discovers a bundle of love letters in the attic, written by a watercolourist named Emmy, she is intrigued and sets out to discover Emmy's true story. Emmy's letters take Joanna to the picturesque alleyways and bridges of Lisbon, Prague, and the most romantic place of all: Venice - where a whole new magical world seems to unfold in front of her. Meanwhile, back at Mulberry Farm Cottage, a mysterious prowler adds to Harriet's problems and interrupts her search for a perfect partner. Will she ever find true love? Where will Emmy's mesmerising pathway lead? And more importantly, will Joanna and Harriet be able to rescue the cottage and finally be able to re-discover their sisterly bond? WHAT READERS ARE SAYING ABOUT FROM VENICE WITH LOVE 'Romantic and magical' ***** 'The escapism we all need' ***** 'A love story with a difference' *****
Publisher: Quercus
ISBN: 1787476308
Category : Fiction
Languages : en
Pages : 372
Book Description
'COMPLETELY BEGUILING AND BEAUTIFULLY TOLD' Kate Furnival 'A PERFECT SUMMER READ' Rachel Hore 'A GORGEOUS, MOUTH-WATERING DREAM OF A HOLIDAY READ' Red 'PERFECT HOLIDAY READING, WHEREVER YOU GO' The Lady The bestselling author of The Lemon Tree Hotel returns with an enchanting new summer read about family bonds and following your heart, wherever it might take you... With her marriage in danger of falling apart, Joanna returns home to the beautiful but dilapidated Mulberry Farm Cottage in rural Dorset, where her sister Harriet is struggling to keep the Farm afloat and cope with their eccentric mother. When Joanna discovers a bundle of love letters in the attic, written by a watercolourist named Emmy, she is intrigued and sets out to discover Emmy's true story. Emmy's letters take Joanna to the picturesque alleyways and bridges of Lisbon, Prague, and the most romantic place of all: Venice - where a whole new magical world seems to unfold in front of her. Meanwhile, back at Mulberry Farm Cottage, a mysterious prowler adds to Harriet's problems and interrupts her search for a perfect partner. Will she ever find true love? Where will Emmy's mesmerising pathway lead? And more importantly, will Joanna and Harriet be able to rescue the cottage and finally be able to re-discover their sisterly bond? WHAT READERS ARE SAYING ABOUT FROM VENICE WITH LOVE 'Romantic and magical' ***** 'The escapism we all need' ***** 'A love story with a difference' *****
Love Across Europe: A Guide to 90 Romantic Cities for Unforgettable Dates
Author: Pablo Picante
Publisher: Richards Education
ISBN:
Category : Travel
Languages : en
Pages : 171
Book Description
In the enchanting continent of Europe, romance is woven into the very fabric of its cities. From historic cobblestone streets to picturesque waterfronts, Europe offers a plethora of destinations perfect for unforgettable dates. Whether you're strolling hand in hand through charming villages, indulging in candlelit dinners overlooking iconic landmarks, or simply admiring breathtaking sunsets, each city on this list promises to ignite passion and create lasting memories with your loved one. Join us on a journey through Love Across Europe as we explore 90 romantic cities awaiting your next romantic escapade. As you embark on your journey through the romantic cities of Europe, may each destination ignite the flames of love and create cherished memories to last a lifetime. Whether you're wandering through historic streets, savoring local cuisine, or simply enjoying each other's company, Love Across Europe promises to be a guidebook to unforgettable romantic adventures. So pack your bags, grab your loved one's hand, and let the magic of Europe sweep you off your feet.
Publisher: Richards Education
ISBN:
Category : Travel
Languages : en
Pages : 171
Book Description
In the enchanting continent of Europe, romance is woven into the very fabric of its cities. From historic cobblestone streets to picturesque waterfronts, Europe offers a plethora of destinations perfect for unforgettable dates. Whether you're strolling hand in hand through charming villages, indulging in candlelit dinners overlooking iconic landmarks, or simply admiring breathtaking sunsets, each city on this list promises to ignite passion and create lasting memories with your loved one. Join us on a journey through Love Across Europe as we explore 90 romantic cities awaiting your next romantic escapade. As you embark on your journey through the romantic cities of Europe, may each destination ignite the flames of love and create cherished memories to last a lifetime. Whether you're wandering through historic streets, savoring local cuisine, or simply enjoying each other's company, Love Across Europe promises to be a guidebook to unforgettable romantic adventures. So pack your bags, grab your loved one's hand, and let the magic of Europe sweep you off your feet.
City of Fortune
Author: Roger Crowley
Publisher: Random House
ISBN: 0679644261
Category : History
Languages : en
Pages : 536
Book Description
“The rise and fall of Venice’s empire is an irresistible story and [Roger] Crowley, with his rousing descriptive gifts and scholarly attention to detail, is its perfect chronicler.”—The Financial Times The New York Times bestselling author of Empires of the Sea charts Venice’s astounding five-hundred-year voyage to the pinnacle of power in an epic story that stands unrivaled for drama, intrigue, and sheer opulent majesty. City of Fortune traces the full arc of the Venetian imperial saga, from the ill-fated Fourth Crusade, which culminates in the sacking of Constantinople in 1204, to the Ottoman-Venetian War of 1499–1503, which sees the Ottoman Turks supplant the Venetians as the preeminent naval power in the Mediterranean. In between are three centuries of Venetian maritime dominance, during which a tiny city of “lagoon dwellers” grow into the richest place on earth. Drawing on firsthand accounts of pitched sea battles, skillful negotiations, and diplomatic maneuvers, Crowley paints a vivid picture of this avaricious, enterprising people and the bountiful lands that came under their dominion. From the opening of the spice routes to the clash between Christianity and Islam, Venice played a leading role in the defining conflicts of its time—the reverberations of which are still being felt today. “[Crowley] writes with a racy briskness that lifts sea battles and sieges off the page.”—The New York Times “Crowley chronicles the peak of Venice’s past glory with Wordsworthian sympathy, supplemented by impressive learning and infectious enthusiasm.”—The Wall Street Journal
Publisher: Random House
ISBN: 0679644261
Category : History
Languages : en
Pages : 536
Book Description
“The rise and fall of Venice’s empire is an irresistible story and [Roger] Crowley, with his rousing descriptive gifts and scholarly attention to detail, is its perfect chronicler.”—The Financial Times The New York Times bestselling author of Empires of the Sea charts Venice’s astounding five-hundred-year voyage to the pinnacle of power in an epic story that stands unrivaled for drama, intrigue, and sheer opulent majesty. City of Fortune traces the full arc of the Venetian imperial saga, from the ill-fated Fourth Crusade, which culminates in the sacking of Constantinople in 1204, to the Ottoman-Venetian War of 1499–1503, which sees the Ottoman Turks supplant the Venetians as the preeminent naval power in the Mediterranean. In between are three centuries of Venetian maritime dominance, during which a tiny city of “lagoon dwellers” grow into the richest place on earth. Drawing on firsthand accounts of pitched sea battles, skillful negotiations, and diplomatic maneuvers, Crowley paints a vivid picture of this avaricious, enterprising people and the bountiful lands that came under their dominion. From the opening of the spice routes to the clash between Christianity and Islam, Venice played a leading role in the defining conflicts of its time—the reverberations of which are still being felt today. “[Crowley] writes with a racy briskness that lifts sea battles and sieges off the page.”—The New York Times “Crowley chronicles the peak of Venice’s past glory with Wordsworthian sympathy, supplemented by impressive learning and infectious enthusiasm.”—The Wall Street Journal
Off the Beaten Path: Hidden Gems of Europe
Author: Georgie Rogers
Publisher: Richards Education
ISBN:
Category : Travel
Languages : en
Pages : 91
Book Description
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Europe with "Off the Beaten Path: Hidden Gems of Europe." This comprehensive guide reveals the continent's best-kept secrets, from enchanting villages and breathtaking natural wonders to unique cultural experiences and culinary delights. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or an adventurous novice, this book is your passport to discovering Europe's most captivating and lesser-known destinations. Explore quaint towns like Hallstatt in Austria and Rovinj in Croatia, uncover the pristine beauty of the Faroe Islands and the Azores, and immerse yourself in the rich history of Berat, Albania, and Sibiu, Romania. Each chapter is packed with practical tips, detailed itineraries, and inspiring stories to help you navigate these hidden gems with confidence and ease. "Off the Beaten Path: Hidden Gems of Europe" is more than just a travel guide—it's a call to adventure for those who seek to explore beyond the tourist trails. Discover the true essence of Europe, connect with locals, and create unforgettable memories as you venture off the beaten path. Your European adventure awaits!
Publisher: Richards Education
ISBN:
Category : Travel
Languages : en
Pages : 91
Book Description
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Europe with "Off the Beaten Path: Hidden Gems of Europe." This comprehensive guide reveals the continent's best-kept secrets, from enchanting villages and breathtaking natural wonders to unique cultural experiences and culinary delights. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or an adventurous novice, this book is your passport to discovering Europe's most captivating and lesser-known destinations. Explore quaint towns like Hallstatt in Austria and Rovinj in Croatia, uncover the pristine beauty of the Faroe Islands and the Azores, and immerse yourself in the rich history of Berat, Albania, and Sibiu, Romania. Each chapter is packed with practical tips, detailed itineraries, and inspiring stories to help you navigate these hidden gems with confidence and ease. "Off the Beaten Path: Hidden Gems of Europe" is more than just a travel guide—it's a call to adventure for those who seek to explore beyond the tourist trails. Discover the true essence of Europe, connect with locals, and create unforgettable memories as you venture off the beaten path. Your European adventure awaits!
Top 50 Best Things to do in Venice, Italy
Author: Nicholas Khatch
Publisher: Nicholas Khatchadourian
ISBN:
Category : Travel
Languages : en
Pages : 115
Book Description
Immerse yourself in the timeless beauty and captivating allure of Venice, Italy, with this carefully curated list of 50 incredible things to do. From the iconic sights that define the city's skyline to the hidden gems tucked away in its narrow streets, this list offers a diverse range of experiences that cater to every traveler's interests. Discover the opulence of St. Mark's Square, explore world-class art collections, and embark on scenic boat tours to the charming Venetian islands. Indulge in the culinary delights of Venetian cuisine, wander through historic neighborhoods, and witness the exquisite craftsmanship of Murano glass. This list is your gateway to unlocking the secrets of Venice and creating cherished memories that will last a lifetime. Venice, known as the "Floating City," is renowned for its intricate network of canals, and a visit wouldn't be complete without a romantic gondola ride. Glide through the picturesque waterways, passing under elegant bridges and alongside magnificent palaces, while your gondolier regales you with stories of the city's past. Stroll through St. Mark's Square, the vibrant heart of Venice, and marvel at the grandeur of the Doge's Palace and St. Mark's Basilica, adorned with stunning mosaics and architectural splendor. Delve into the city's rich artistic heritage at renowned museums like the Peggy Guggenheim Collection and the Gallerie dell'Accademia, where masterpieces from both contemporary and classic artists are on display. Venture beyond the well-known attractions and discover the lesser-explored corners of Venice. Lose yourself in the maze-like streets of the Cannaregio and San Polo districts, where you can encounter local artisans, charming squares, and picturesque canals off the beaten path. Experience the enchantment of the Venetian islands, from the glassblowing workshops of Murano to the tranquil beauty of Torcello and the colorful houses of Burano. Explore the hidden treasures of Venice's churches, such as the Chiesa di San Pietro di Castello or the Chiesa di Santa Maria dei Miracoli, each boasting unique architectural features and captivating artwork. Culinary delights await at every turn in Venice. Indulge in cicchetti, traditional Venetian small plates, paired with a glass of local wine at the lively bacari (wine bars). Sample fresh seafood at the Rialto Market, where stalls brim with the catch of the day, or savor the iconic Venetian dish, risotto al nero di seppia (black squid ink risotto). Don't miss the opportunity to partake in a cooking class and learn the secrets behind preparing authentic Venetian dishes, using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. End your days with leisurely walks along the canals at sunset, as the golden light casts a romantic glow on the city's unique architecture and creates a magical ambiance that is quintessentially Venice.
Publisher: Nicholas Khatchadourian
ISBN:
Category : Travel
Languages : en
Pages : 115
Book Description
Immerse yourself in the timeless beauty and captivating allure of Venice, Italy, with this carefully curated list of 50 incredible things to do. From the iconic sights that define the city's skyline to the hidden gems tucked away in its narrow streets, this list offers a diverse range of experiences that cater to every traveler's interests. Discover the opulence of St. Mark's Square, explore world-class art collections, and embark on scenic boat tours to the charming Venetian islands. Indulge in the culinary delights of Venetian cuisine, wander through historic neighborhoods, and witness the exquisite craftsmanship of Murano glass. This list is your gateway to unlocking the secrets of Venice and creating cherished memories that will last a lifetime. Venice, known as the "Floating City," is renowned for its intricate network of canals, and a visit wouldn't be complete without a romantic gondola ride. Glide through the picturesque waterways, passing under elegant bridges and alongside magnificent palaces, while your gondolier regales you with stories of the city's past. Stroll through St. Mark's Square, the vibrant heart of Venice, and marvel at the grandeur of the Doge's Palace and St. Mark's Basilica, adorned with stunning mosaics and architectural splendor. Delve into the city's rich artistic heritage at renowned museums like the Peggy Guggenheim Collection and the Gallerie dell'Accademia, where masterpieces from both contemporary and classic artists are on display. Venture beyond the well-known attractions and discover the lesser-explored corners of Venice. Lose yourself in the maze-like streets of the Cannaregio and San Polo districts, where you can encounter local artisans, charming squares, and picturesque canals off the beaten path. Experience the enchantment of the Venetian islands, from the glassblowing workshops of Murano to the tranquil beauty of Torcello and the colorful houses of Burano. Explore the hidden treasures of Venice's churches, such as the Chiesa di San Pietro di Castello or the Chiesa di Santa Maria dei Miracoli, each boasting unique architectural features and captivating artwork. Culinary delights await at every turn in Venice. Indulge in cicchetti, traditional Venetian small plates, paired with a glass of local wine at the lively bacari (wine bars). Sample fresh seafood at the Rialto Market, where stalls brim with the catch of the day, or savor the iconic Venetian dish, risotto al nero di seppia (black squid ink risotto). Don't miss the opportunity to partake in a cooking class and learn the secrets behind preparing authentic Venetian dishes, using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. End your days with leisurely walks along the canals at sunset, as the golden light casts a romantic glow on the city's unique architecture and creates a magical ambiance that is quintessentially Venice.
Unveiling Venice - Italy: Your Travel Guide to La Serenissima - Essentials Eddition
Author: Tailored Travel Guides
Publisher: WEST AGORA INT S.R.L.
ISBN:
Category : Travel
Languages : en
Pages : 90
Book Description
Highlights: Quick access to official websites for bookings, current prices, tickets, reservations, extra information and much more Day Trips with destination overview, images, distance, highlights and more - for each day-trip Stunning Pictorials Maps and free quick access to extra filtered maps Written and published in 2024 88 vibrant, full-color pages Over 90+ meticulously curated entries featuring stunning images, invaluable tips, practical insights, and much more Up-to-date and triple-checked information for accuracy and reliability Embark on an enchanting voyage through Venice with "Unveiling Venice - Italy: Your Travel Guide to La Serenissima - Essentials Edition." This expertly curated guide is your passport to exploring the timeless allure of Venice, from its labyrinthine canals to its artistic heritage and hidden corners waiting to be discovered. With this guide, you'll navigate the city's waterways with confidence, uncover secret passages, and immerse yourself in the artistic soul that has captivated travelers for centuries. Whether it's your first visit or your tenth, our guide will transform every moment in Venice into a treasure of memories. What Sets Our Venice Guide Apart: Newly Published in 2024: Stay ahead with the most recent insights into Venice's vibrant culture and timeless beauty, ensuring your experience is both authentic and up-to-date. Over 90 Entries Across 80+ Full-Color Pages: From the majestic Doge's Palace to the serene back canals less traveled by tourists, our guide is filled with stunning visuals and detailed entries that bring the magic of Venice to life. Concise and Engaging: We provide the perfect mix of depth and brevity, enriching your visit with fascinating insights without overwhelming you with unnecessary details. Reliable and Current Information: Every recommendation and tip is triple-checked for accuracy, offering a dependable companion for your Venetian journey. Unbiased and Tailored Recommendations: Free from commercial bias — no kickbacks, and focused solely on your experience, our suggestions are designed to ensure you discover the best of Venice, from its renowned landmarks to its hidden gems. Why Our Guide is Essential for Your Venetian Adventure: Our guide doesn't just show you Venice; it lets you experience the city's heart and soul. It's an invitation to wander beyond the main squares into the intimate corners where Venice reveals its true character. We illuminate the path to understanding the city's rich history and vibrant present, turning every step into a moment of discovery. The Ideal Gift: A thoughtful gift for anyone who dreams of Venice, offering a window to the city's soul, rich in history and beauty. For Dreamers and Planners: Whether planning your next visit or dreaming from afar, let our guide inspire your adventures and enrich your understanding of Venice's layered beauty. For Lovers of Beauty: An exquisite addition to any collection, our guide is as visually captivating as it is informative, perfect for adorning coffee tables and sparking wanderlust. Secure Your Copy: Prepare to be spellbound by the magic, history, and artistry of Venice, as every page of this guide draws you deeper into its captivating story. Discover Your Journey with Tailored Travel Guides!
Publisher: WEST AGORA INT S.R.L.
ISBN:
Category : Travel
Languages : en
Pages : 90
Book Description
Highlights: Quick access to official websites for bookings, current prices, tickets, reservations, extra information and much more Day Trips with destination overview, images, distance, highlights and more - for each day-trip Stunning Pictorials Maps and free quick access to extra filtered maps Written and published in 2024 88 vibrant, full-color pages Over 90+ meticulously curated entries featuring stunning images, invaluable tips, practical insights, and much more Up-to-date and triple-checked information for accuracy and reliability Embark on an enchanting voyage through Venice with "Unveiling Venice - Italy: Your Travel Guide to La Serenissima - Essentials Edition." This expertly curated guide is your passport to exploring the timeless allure of Venice, from its labyrinthine canals to its artistic heritage and hidden corners waiting to be discovered. With this guide, you'll navigate the city's waterways with confidence, uncover secret passages, and immerse yourself in the artistic soul that has captivated travelers for centuries. Whether it's your first visit or your tenth, our guide will transform every moment in Venice into a treasure of memories. What Sets Our Venice Guide Apart: Newly Published in 2024: Stay ahead with the most recent insights into Venice's vibrant culture and timeless beauty, ensuring your experience is both authentic and up-to-date. Over 90 Entries Across 80+ Full-Color Pages: From the majestic Doge's Palace to the serene back canals less traveled by tourists, our guide is filled with stunning visuals and detailed entries that bring the magic of Venice to life. Concise and Engaging: We provide the perfect mix of depth and brevity, enriching your visit with fascinating insights without overwhelming you with unnecessary details. Reliable and Current Information: Every recommendation and tip is triple-checked for accuracy, offering a dependable companion for your Venetian journey. Unbiased and Tailored Recommendations: Free from commercial bias — no kickbacks, and focused solely on your experience, our suggestions are designed to ensure you discover the best of Venice, from its renowned landmarks to its hidden gems. Why Our Guide is Essential for Your Venetian Adventure: Our guide doesn't just show you Venice; it lets you experience the city's heart and soul. It's an invitation to wander beyond the main squares into the intimate corners where Venice reveals its true character. We illuminate the path to understanding the city's rich history and vibrant present, turning every step into a moment of discovery. The Ideal Gift: A thoughtful gift for anyone who dreams of Venice, offering a window to the city's soul, rich in history and beauty. For Dreamers and Planners: Whether planning your next visit or dreaming from afar, let our guide inspire your adventures and enrich your understanding of Venice's layered beauty. For Lovers of Beauty: An exquisite addition to any collection, our guide is as visually captivating as it is informative, perfect for adorning coffee tables and sparking wanderlust. Secure Your Copy: Prepare to be spellbound by the magic, history, and artistry of Venice, as every page of this guide draws you deeper into its captivating story. Discover Your Journey with Tailored Travel Guides!
Kids Go Europe
Author: Kids Go Europe, Incorporated
Publisher: Kids Go Europe
ISBN: 0977269914
Category :
Languages : en
Pages : 118
Book Description
Publisher: Kids Go Europe
ISBN: 0977269914
Category :
Languages : en
Pages : 118
Book Description
The Venice Variations
Author: Sophia Psarra
Publisher: UCL Press
ISBN: 1787352390
Category : Architecture
Languages : en
Pages : 335
Book Description
From the myth of Arcadia through to the twenty-first century, ideas about sustainability – how we imagine better urban environments – remain persistently relevant, and raise recurring questions. How do cities evolve as complex spaces nurturing both urban creativity and the fortuitous art of discovery, and by which mechanisms do they foster imagination and innovation? While past utopias were conceived in terms of an ideal geometry, contemporary exemplary models of urban design seek technological solutions of optimal organisation. The Venice Variations explores Venice as a prototypical city that may hold unique answers to the ancient narrative of utopia. Venice was not the result of a preconceived ideal but the pragmatic outcome of social and economic networks of communication. Its urban creativity, though, came to represent the quintessential combination of place and institutions of its time. Through a discussion of Venice and two other works owing their inspiration to this city – Italo Calvino’s Invisible Cities and Le Corbusier’s Venice Hospital – Sophia Psarra describes Venice as a system that starts to resemble a highly probabilistic ‘algorithm’, that is, a structure with a small number of rules capable of producing a large number of variations. The rapidly escalating processes of urban development around our big cities share many of the motivations for survival, shelter and trade that brought Venice into existence. Rather than seeing these places as problems to be solved, we need to understand how urban complexity can evolve, as happened from its unprepossessing origins in the marshes of the Venetian lagoon to the ‘model city’ that endured a thousand years. This book frees Venice from stereotypical representations, revealing its generative capacity to inform potential other ‘Venices’ for the future.
Publisher: UCL Press
ISBN: 1787352390
Category : Architecture
Languages : en
Pages : 335
Book Description
From the myth of Arcadia through to the twenty-first century, ideas about sustainability – how we imagine better urban environments – remain persistently relevant, and raise recurring questions. How do cities evolve as complex spaces nurturing both urban creativity and the fortuitous art of discovery, and by which mechanisms do they foster imagination and innovation? While past utopias were conceived in terms of an ideal geometry, contemporary exemplary models of urban design seek technological solutions of optimal organisation. The Venice Variations explores Venice as a prototypical city that may hold unique answers to the ancient narrative of utopia. Venice was not the result of a preconceived ideal but the pragmatic outcome of social and economic networks of communication. Its urban creativity, though, came to represent the quintessential combination of place and institutions of its time. Through a discussion of Venice and two other works owing their inspiration to this city – Italo Calvino’s Invisible Cities and Le Corbusier’s Venice Hospital – Sophia Psarra describes Venice as a system that starts to resemble a highly probabilistic ‘algorithm’, that is, a structure with a small number of rules capable of producing a large number of variations. The rapidly escalating processes of urban development around our big cities share many of the motivations for survival, shelter and trade that brought Venice into existence. Rather than seeing these places as problems to be solved, we need to understand how urban complexity can evolve, as happened from its unprepossessing origins in the marshes of the Venetian lagoon to the ‘model city’ that endured a thousand years. This book frees Venice from stereotypical representations, revealing its generative capacity to inform potential other ‘Venices’ for the future.